-
Question 1
Correct
-
A 75-year-old woman comes to the clinic with a painful lump in her right groin. Upon examination, a tender swelling is found below and to the side of the pubic tubercle. It exhibits a cough impulse. What is the probable underlying diagnosis?
Your Answer: Femoral hernia
Explanation:Although a saphena varix thrombophlebitis can result in a sensitive bulge in the affected area, it typically does not produce a cough impulse.
Understanding the Femoral Canal
The femoral canal is a fascial tunnel located at the medial aspect of the femoral sheath. It contains both the femoral artery and femoral vein, with the canal lying medial to the vein. The borders of the femoral canal include the femoral vein laterally, the lacunar ligament medially, the inguinal ligament anteriorly, and the pectineal ligament posteriorly.
The femoral canal plays a significant role in allowing the femoral vein to expand, which facilitates increased venous return to the lower limbs. However, it can also be a site of femoral hernias, which occur when abdominal contents protrude through the femoral canal. The relatively tight neck of the femoral canal places these hernias at high risk of strangulation, making it important to understand the anatomy and function of this structure. Overall, understanding the femoral canal is crucial for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating potential issues related to this area.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 2
Correct
-
A 45-year-old man presents to the surgical team with abdominal pain, bloating, and vomiting. Based on an abdominal x-ray, there is suspicion of a malignancy causing intestinal obstruction. Which of the following antiemetics should be avoided for managing the patient's vomiting?
Your Answer: Metoclopramide
Explanation:It is not recommended to use metoclopramide as an antiemetic in cases of bowel obstruction. This is because metoclopramide works by blocking dopamine receptors and stimulating peripheral 5HT3 receptors, which promote gastric emptying. However, in cases of intestinal obstruction, gastric emptying is not possible and this effect can be harmful. The choice of antiemetic should be based on the patient’s individual needs and the underlying cause of their nausea.
Understanding the Mechanism and Uses of Metoclopramide
Metoclopramide is a medication primarily used to manage nausea, but it also has other uses such as treating gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and gastroparesis secondary to diabetic neuropathy. It is often combined with analgesics for the treatment of migraines. However, it is important to note that metoclopramide has adverse effects such as extrapyramidal effects, acute dystonia, diarrhoea, hyperprolactinaemia, tardive dyskinesia, and parkinsonism. It should also be avoided in bowel obstruction but may be helpful in paralytic ileus.
The mechanism of action of metoclopramide is quite complicated. It is primarily a D2 receptor antagonist, but it also has mixed 5-HT3 receptor antagonist/5-HT4 receptor agonist activity. Its antiemetic action is due to its antagonist activity at D2 receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone, and at higher doses, the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist also has an effect. The gastroprokinetic activity is mediated by D2 receptor antagonist activity and 5-HT4 receptor agonist activity.
In summary, metoclopramide is a medication with multiple uses, but it also has adverse effects that should be considered. Its mechanism of action is complex, involving both D2 receptor antagonist and 5-HT3 receptor antagonist/5-HT4 receptor agonist activity. Understanding the uses and mechanism of action of metoclopramide is important for its safe and effective use.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 3
Correct
-
A 50-year-old man is scheduled for a radical prostatectomy to treat prostate cancer. What is the vessel that directly supplies blood to the prostate gland?
Your Answer: Inferior vesical artery
Explanation:The prostate gland receives its arterial supply from the prostatovesical artery, which is a branch of the inferior vesical artery. The prostatovesical artery typically originates from the internal iliac artery’s internal pudendal and inferior gluteal arterial branches.
Anatomy of the Prostate Gland
The prostate gland is a small, walnut-shaped gland located below the bladder and separated from the rectum by Denonvilliers fascia. It receives its blood supply from the internal iliac vessels, specifically the inferior vesical artery. The gland has an internal sphincter at its apex, which can be damaged during surgery and result in retrograde ejaculation.
The prostate gland has four lobes: the posterior lobe, median lobe, and two lateral lobes. It also has an isthmus and three zones: the peripheral zone, central zone, and transition zone. The peripheral zone, which is the subcapsular portion of the posterior prostate, is where most prostate cancers occur.
The gland is surrounded by various structures, including the pubic symphysis, prostatic venous plexus, Denonvilliers fascia, rectum, ejaculatory ducts, lateral venous plexus, and levator ani. Its lymphatic drainage is to the internal iliac nodes, and its innervation comes from the inferior hypogastric plexus.
In summary, the prostate gland is a small but important gland in the male reproductive system. Its anatomy includes lobes, zones, and various surrounding structures, and it plays a crucial role in ejaculation and prostate health.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 4
Correct
-
A 27-year-old man is stabbed in the groin and the area within the femoral triangle needs to be examined. What forms the lateral wall of the femoral triangle?
Your Answer: Sartorius
Explanation:Understanding the Anatomy of the Femoral Triangle
The femoral triangle is an important anatomical region located in the upper thigh. It is bounded by the inguinal ligament superiorly, the sartorius muscle laterally, and the adductor longus muscle medially. The floor of the femoral triangle is made up of the iliacus, psoas major, adductor longus, and pectineus muscles, while the roof is formed by the fascia lata and superficial fascia. The superficial inguinal lymph nodes and the long saphenous vein are also found in this region.
The femoral triangle contains several important structures, including the femoral vein, femoral artery, femoral nerve, deep and superficial inguinal lymph nodes, lateral cutaneous nerve, great saphenous vein, and femoral branch of the genitofemoral nerve. The femoral artery can be palpated at the mid inguinal point, making it an important landmark for medical professionals.
Understanding the anatomy of the femoral triangle is important for medical professionals, as it is a common site for procedures such as venipuncture, arterial puncture, and nerve blocks. It is also important for identifying and treating conditions that affect the structures within this region, such as femoral hernias and lymphadenopathy.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 5
Correct
-
A 35-year-old man has arrived at the emergency department following a car crash. He is experiencing tachycardia and his blood pressure is rapidly decreasing from 90/60mmHg. He is feeling dizzy and disoriented, and is experiencing pain in his left upper quadrant and left shoulder. Which organ is most likely to have sustained damage?
Your Answer: Spleen
Explanation:The patient’s tachycardia and low blood pressure indicate internal bleeding due to trauma. Although he experiences pain in his upper left abdominal quadrant, it does not rule out the possibility of internal bleeding. However, it makes heart and lung injuries less likely as he would have also complained of chest pain. The pain in his left shoulder suggests that the left phrenic nerve has been affected, which indicates damage to the spleen rather than the liver, as it would have been on the right side. The spleen is commonly damaged in trauma and could explain the rapid drop in blood pressure.
Understanding the Anatomy of the Spleen
The spleen is a vital organ in the human body, serving as the largest lymphoid organ. It is located below the 9th-12th ribs and has a clenched fist shape. The spleen is an intraperitoneal organ, and its peritoneal attachments condense at the hilum, where the vessels enter the spleen. The blood supply of the spleen is from the splenic artery, which is derived from the coeliac axis, and the splenic vein, which is joined by the IMV and unites with the SMV.
The spleen is derived from mesenchymal tissue during embryology. It weighs between 75-150g and has several relations with other organs. The diaphragm is superior to the spleen, while the gastric impression is anterior, the kidney is posterior, and the colon is inferior. The hilum of the spleen is formed by the tail of the pancreas and splenic vessels. The spleen also forms the apex of the lesser sac, which contains short gastric vessels.
In conclusion, understanding the anatomy of the spleen is crucial in comprehending its functions and the role it plays in the human body. The spleen’s location, weight, and relations with other organs are essential in diagnosing and treating spleen-related conditions.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 6
Correct
-
Which of the following hemodynamic changes is not observed in hypovolemic shock?
Your Answer: Reduced systemic vascular resistance
Explanation:Cardiogenic shock can occur due to conditions such as a heart attack or valve abnormality. This can lead to an increase in systemic vascular resistance (vasoconstriction in response to low blood pressure), an increase in heart rate (due to sympathetic response), a decrease in cardiac output, and a decrease in blood pressure. Hypovolemic shock can occur due to blood volume depletion from causes such as hemorrhage, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, or third-space losses during major surgeries. This can lead to an increase in systemic vascular resistance, an increase in heart rate, a decrease in cardiac output, and a decrease in blood pressure. Septic shock occurs when peripheral vascular dilatation causes a fall in systemic vascular resistance. This response can also occur in anaphylactic shock or neurogenic shock. In septic shock, there is a reduced systemic vascular resistance, an increased heart rate, a normal or increased cardiac output, and a decrease in blood pressure. Typically, systemic vascular resistance will decrease in septic shock.
Shock is a condition where there is not enough blood flow to the tissues. There are five main types of shock: septic, haemorrhagic, neurogenic, cardiogenic, and anaphylactic. Septic shock is caused by an infection that triggers a particular response in the body. Haemorrhagic shock is caused by blood loss, and there are four classes of haemorrhagic shock based on the amount of blood loss and associated symptoms. Neurogenic shock occurs when there is a disruption in the autonomic nervous system, leading to decreased vascular resistance and decreased cardiac output. Cardiogenic shock is caused by heart disease or direct myocardial trauma. Anaphylactic shock is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction. Adrenaline is the most important drug in treating anaphylaxis and should be given as soon as possible.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 7
Correct
-
A 12-year-old boy presents to the emergency department with complaints of central abdominal pain that has shifted to the right iliac fossa. Upon examination, there are no indications of rebound tenderness or guarding.
What is the most probable diagnosis, and how would you describe the pathophysiology of the condition?Your Answer: Obstruction of the appendiceal lumen due to lymphoid hyperplasia or faecolith
Explanation:The pathophysiology of appendicitis involves obstruction of the appendiceal lumen, which is commonly caused by lymphoid hyperplasia or a faecolith. This condition is most prevalent in young individuals aged 10-20 years and is the most common acute abdominal condition requiring surgery. Blood clots are not a typical cause of appendiceal obstruction, but foreign bodies and worms can also contribute to this condition.
Pancreatitis can lead to autodigestion in the pancreas, while autoimmune destruction of the pancreas is responsible for type 1 diabetes. Symptoms of type 1 diabetes, which typically develops at a younger age than type 2 diabetes, include polydipsia and polyuria.
Acute appendicitis is a common condition that requires surgery and can occur at any age, but is most prevalent in young people aged 10-20 years. The pathogenesis of acute appendicitis involves lymphoid hyperplasia or a faecolith, which leads to obstruction of the appendiceal lumen. This obstruction causes gut organisms to invade the appendix wall, resulting in oedema, ischaemia, and possibly perforation.
The most common symptom of acute appendicitis is abdominal pain, which is typically peri-umbilical and radiates to the right iliac fossa due to localised peritoneal inflammation. Other symptoms include mild pyrexia, anorexia, and nausea. Examination may reveal generalised or localised peritonism, rebound and percussion tenderness, guarding and rigidity, and classical signs such as Rovsing’s sign and psoas sign.
Diagnosis of acute appendicitis is typically based on raised inflammatory markers and compatible history and examination findings. Imaging may be used in certain cases, such as ultrasound in females where pelvic organ pathology is suspected. Management of acute appendicitis involves appendicectomy, which can be performed via an open or laparoscopic approach. Patients with perforated appendicitis require copious abdominal lavage, while those without peritonitis who have an appendix mass should receive broad-spectrum antibiotics and consideration given to performing an interval appendicectomy. Intravenous antibiotics alone have been trialled as a treatment for appendicitis, but evidence suggests that this is associated with a longer hospital stay and up to 20% of patients go on to have an appendicectomy within 12 months.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 8
Correct
-
A 23-year-old woman presents to the gastroenterology clinic with a 6-month history of cramping abdominal pain and weight loss. She reports looser bowel motions and opening her bowels 2-4 times per day. There is no history of fever or vomiting. During the examination, the physician observes 4 oral mucosal ulcers. Mild tenderness is noted in the right iliac fossa. An endoscopy is ordered.
What are the expected endoscopy findings for this patient's most likely diagnosis?Your Answer: Cobble-stoned appearance
Explanation:This patient has been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, which is characterized by a long history of abdominal pain, weight loss, and diarrhea. Unlike ulcerative colitis, which only affects the colon, Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. In this case, oral mucosal ulceration is also present. The classic cobblestone appearance on endoscopy is due to deep ulceration in the gut mucosa with skip lesions in between.
On the other hand, loss of haustra is a finding seen in chronic ulcerative colitis on fluoroscopy. The chronic inflammatory process in the mucosal and submucosal layers of the colon can cause luminal narrowing, resulting in a drainpipe colon that is shortened and narrowed. In UC, shallow ulceration occurs in the mucosa, with spared mucosa giving rise to the appearance of polyps, also known as pseudopolyps. These can cause bloody diarrhea.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a condition that includes two main types: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Although they share many similarities in terms of symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment, there are some key differences between the two. Crohn’s disease is characterized by non-bloody diarrhea, weight loss, upper gastrointestinal symptoms, mouth ulcers, perianal disease, and a palpable abdominal mass in the right iliac fossa. On the other hand, ulcerative colitis is characterized by bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain in the left lower quadrant, tenesmus, gallstones, and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Complications of Crohn’s disease include obstruction, fistula, and colorectal cancer, while ulcerative colitis has a higher risk of colorectal cancer than Crohn’s disease. Pathologically, Crohn’s disease lesions can be seen anywhere from the mouth to anus, while ulcerative colitis inflammation always starts at the rectum and never spreads beyond the ileocaecal valve. Endoscopy and radiology can help diagnose and differentiate between the two types of IBD.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 9
Correct
-
A 55-year-old obese woman presents with a 4-hour history of right upper quadrant abdominal pain that started after a meal. Upon physical examination, tenderness was noted upon palpation of the right upper quadrant. An abdominal ultrasound revealed the presence of gallstones in the gallbladder. The surgeon opted for a cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder. During the surgery, the surgeon identified the cystic duct and the inferior surface of the liver to locate the hepatobiliary triangle. What is the third border of the hepatobiliary triangle?
Your Answer: Common hepatic duct
Explanation:The area known as the hepatobiliary triangle is defined by three borders: the common hepatic duct on the medial side, the cystic duct on the inferior side, and the inferior edge of the liver on the superior side. This space is particularly important during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, as it allows for safe ligation and division of the cystic duct and cystic artery. It’s worth noting that the common bile duct is formed by the joining of the common hepatic duct and the cystic duct, but it is not considered one of the borders of the hepatobiliary triangle. The cystic artery, on the other hand, is located within this anatomical space. Finally, while the gastroduodenal artery does arise from the common hepatic artery, it is not one of the borders of the hepatobiliary triangle.
The gallbladder is a sac made of fibromuscular tissue that can hold up to 50 ml of fluid. Its lining is made up of columnar epithelium. The gallbladder is located in close proximity to various organs, including the liver, transverse colon, and the first part of the duodenum. It is covered by peritoneum and is situated between the right lobe and quadrate lobe of the liver. The gallbladder receives its arterial supply from the cystic artery, which is a branch of the right hepatic artery. Its venous drainage is directly to the liver, and its lymphatic drainage is through Lund’s node. The gallbladder is innervated by both sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves. The common bile duct originates from the confluence of the cystic and common hepatic ducts and is located in the hepatobiliary triangle, which is bordered by the common hepatic duct, cystic duct, and the inferior edge of the liver. The cystic artery is also found within this triangle.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
-
Question 10
Incorrect
-
Which of the following is not a branch of the abdominal aorta?
Your Answer: Inferior phrenic artery
Correct Answer: Superior phrenic artery
Explanation:To remember the order of branches, use the phrase ‘Prostitutes Cause Sagging Swollen Red Testicles [in men] Living In Sin’:
Phrenic [inferior]
Celiac
Superior mesenteric
Suprarenal [middle]
Renal
Testicular [‘in men’ only]
Lumbars
Inferior mesenteric
SacralNote that the superior phrenic artery branches from the aorta in the thorax.
Branches of the Abdominal Aorta
The abdominal aorta is a major blood vessel that supplies oxygenated blood to the abdominal organs and lower extremities. It gives rise to several branches that supply blood to various organs and tissues. These branches can be classified into two types: parietal and visceral.
The parietal branches supply blood to the walls of the abdominal cavity, while the visceral branches supply blood to the abdominal organs. The branches of the abdominal aorta include the inferior phrenic, coeliac, superior mesenteric, middle suprarenal, renal, gonadal, lumbar, inferior mesenteric, median sacral, and common iliac arteries.
The inferior phrenic artery arises from the upper border of the abdominal aorta and supplies blood to the diaphragm. The coeliac artery supplies blood to the liver, stomach, spleen, and pancreas. The superior mesenteric artery supplies blood to the small intestine, cecum, and ascending colon. The middle suprarenal artery supplies blood to the adrenal gland. The renal arteries supply blood to the kidneys. The gonadal arteries supply blood to the testes or ovaries. The lumbar arteries supply blood to the muscles and skin of the back. The inferior mesenteric artery supplies blood to the descending colon, sigmoid colon, and rectum. The median sacral artery supplies blood to the sacrum and coccyx. The common iliac arteries are the terminal branches of the abdominal aorta and supply blood to the pelvis and lower extremities.
Understanding the branches of the abdominal aorta is important for diagnosing and treating various medical conditions that affect the abdominal organs and lower extremities.
-
This question is part of the following fields:
- Gastrointestinal System
-
00
Correct
00
Incorrect
00
:
00
:
00
Session Time
00
:
00
Average Question Time (
Secs)